Welcoming a new baby is pure magic and fleeting. Those tiny lashes, curled fists, and sleepy stretches change by the day. Newborn photography preserves this chapter in artful, timeless images you'll treasure for decades. As a dedicated newborn photographer, Darcey Stone blends gentle posing, natural light (or soft studio light), and a safety-first approach to create heirloom portraits that feel as tender as the moment itself. Below is your complete guide: the best time for newborn photos, how to prepare, what to expect, and how Darcey's style makes your session relaxed and baby-led.
Newborn sessions require more than camera skills-they call for patience, specialized safety training, and a calm presence. Darcey is known for:
For those classic sleepy, curled images, schedule your newborn photoshoot for days 5-14 after birth. Babies are generally sleepier and more flexible in that window. That said, beautiful portraits are absolutely possible up to six weeks-especially swaddled looks, detailed close-ups, and lifestyle newborn photography at home. If the baby arrives early or you need extra time to recover, we'll adapt- your well-being comes first.
Studio newborn photography focuses on softly lit, clean portraits with simple props and classic poses. Expect neutral backdrops (cream, taupe, gray), cozy wraps, and close-ups of lashes, toes, and tiny hands.
Lifestyle newborn photography happens in your home- think cuddles by a window, the nursery you thoughtfully prepared, or siblings meeting a baby on your favorite couch. It's perfect if you love candid, storytelling images and want your home's warmth in the frame.
Not sure which to choose? Many families book a hybrid session: studio-style baby portraits + a short lifestyle segment with parents and siblings.
Darcey follows newborn-specific safety standards:
We begin by letting your baby adjust- no rush. You'll have time to feed, swaddle, and soothe.
Sessions run 2-3 hours to allow for breaks. Darcey starts with simple, swaddled looks to help baby settle, then moves into newborn photography poses that baby naturally enjoys-on the back or side, gently supported. If siblings are joining, we usually capture them early while energy is high.
These images become family heirlooms. Wear soft, coordinating neutrals (cream, beige, gray, dusty pastels). Avoid bold logos and tiny stripes. Simple is timeless.
Darcey keeps props minimal: textured blankets, wooden bowls, tiny bonnets, and wraps in organic fibers. If you have a sentimental item- grandma's quilt, a special toy- bring it; we'll incorporate it safely.
Remember: breaks are part of the plan. Some of the sweetest close-ups happen right after a feed, when the baby drifts into that deep, milky sleep.
Darcey's edit is light and true to life:
Typically 2-3 hours, allowing time for feeding, soothing, and unhurried transitions.
Awake portraits are lovely-wide eyes, yawns, stretches. We adjust with wrapped poses and parent cuddles.
Yes, with safety in mind. We'll plan a calm, brief segment and composite images if needed.
Book during your second or early third trimester to secure a spot around your due date. We'll confirm once your baby arrives.
Yes-many families love capturing both chapters. Ask about bundled options.
If you want gentle, timeless newborn portraits and a session that feels as calm as it looks, Darcey Stone would love to photograph your family's first days together. Get in touch to discuss studio newborn photography, lifestyle newborn photography, or a hybrid session tailored to your space and style.